Mahua Kothi, BANDHAVGARH

Bandhavgarh National Park is a 448 km renowned tiger reserve. Nestled among the picturesque Vindhya Hills and lush
tropical forests, it is one of India’s most scenic national parks. With its sal trees, grasslands, large variety of animals
and birds, and one of the highest densities of tigers in India, Bandhavgarh is a truly extraordinary park.
The name Mahua Kothi draws its inspiration from one of
India’s most beautiful trees, the Madhuca Indica, or as it is
commonly known, the Mahua or butter tree. The twelve
charming suites or Kutiyas (jungle village huts) are newly
built in the 40 acre grounds of the renowned tented camp
formerly known as Churhat Kothi. The original Kothi
(homestead) comprising the guest areas remain and has
been extensively renovated, but the guest accommodation
is all brand new.

Taj Safaris

12

Each of the twelve charming suites or kutiyas (jungle village huts) are built in the vernacular style of Central India. Each is accessed through private courtyards with shaded seating and traditional mud floors. Interiors include wooden shutters, tapered mud coloured walls in lime and earth washes, open rafters with roughly hewn wooden beams, and handmade pottery roof tiles. Each ensuite bathroom features twin hand basins, indoor shower, bath, and separate w.c. Each kutiya features roll-down mats to keep out the early morning sun, as well as overhead fans and air conditioning. Guests can also make use of yoga amenities in a basket (complete with instructions), traditional Indian games of marbles and Chaupad. Kettles of boiling water on chulhas (charcoal burners) are brought out with early morning tea to the kutiyas. Bicycles, parked in the kutiya courtyards, are an invitation to explore. Guest Areas Guest areas boast high ceilings, terracotta floor tiles, overhead fans, inviting fireplace, and traditional sitting areas with window seats. The enormous 600 sq ft veranda runs the length of the building with generous built-in seats for star gazing. The open kitchen welcomes guests upon arrival – watch butter being churned, Masala being grounded by hand, garden fresh vegetables being chopped using traditional sickles, and Rotis being prepared on a Chulha. Browse peacefully in the lodge’s Safari Shop, idle away the hours in the library, or beat the midday heat in the swimming pool. Guests arriving early or departing late can freshen up in the Goings & Comings room.

• Beautiful swimming pool • Baghiya (traditional garden) • Interactive kitchen • Safari Shop

Weather: Tropical – hot during the day. Summer (April-June). Rainfall: Heavy in the monsoon season (mid June to September) and average rainfall is 1100 mm. Best Time to Travel: October to June when game viewing is at its best. Malaria: Though Mahua Kothi is situated in a low risk malaria area, necessary precautions should be taken. Insect repellant will be provided in your suite. Lodge Closure: 1st July to 15th October

Mahua Kothi is conveniently situated near major airports: Khajuraho (230 km) and Jabalpur (190 km), as well as Kanha tiger reserve (230 km). From Delhi: Fly to Khajuraho; the drive to the lodge is approximately 6 hours – 230 kms Fly to Gwalior; Gwalior to Umaria by train (approximately 12 hrs) and the drive from Umaria is approximately 40 minutes – 30 kms. Or Gwalior to katni by train (approximately 10 hours) and the drive from Katni to the lodge is approximately 2.5 hrs – 75 kms. Fly to Jabalpur; the drive from Jabalpur to the lodge is approximately 4 hours – 190 kms. From Mumbai: Fly to Bhopal; connecting flight from Bhopal to Jabalpur and the drive from Jabalpur to the lodge is approximately 4 hours – 190 kms. Pick-Ups and Transfers Skilled drivers in air conditioned luxury 4x4 sedans will transfer guests from the closest airports and railway stations. Please note all road transfers are to be booked by your preferred Indian ground handler.

By train to Katni (approximately 13 to 14 hours); the drive from Katni to the Lodge is approximately 2.5 hrs - 75 km